The legendary "hobo code"was a set of covert markings used to warn other hobos about danger or to clue them into good situations. As times have changed, a new set of code symbols have emerged to alert other hobos to circumstances in modern America. Perhaps you have seen them on your own city streets.

Code Symbol

Meaning

Open Wireless Network

Used Frying Oil Available for Biodiesel

No-fee ATM

High-fee ATM

GPS will screw you here

Discover Card Accepted

Dishonest ticket scalpers here

Well-stocked bathroom

"Plan B" Contraception available

Vegans Beware

Purell Available

Prostitution Sting

Instant Parking tickets

Companies test market here

The wait is 25 minutes from this point in the line

Agitated Homeless

Dumpster Treasure

Don't watch porn on in-dash DVD here.

Unexpected lawn sprinklers

Buffet of Sample Foods

No Oversight of public transit ticket system

Kinkos

Camera Perverts

Thin Ice

Dog Poop

Olive Trees

Overpriced Drinks

Buskers here may actually be Virtuoso musicians planted by the Washington Post